Pope to quit 3 Verulam for Denton Wilde

Top commercial chambers 3 Verulam Buildings is to lose David Pope to Denton Wilde Sapte's advocacy unit in mid-September after six years' service. Pope, who specialises in banking, general commercial disputes and commercial unit, will join as a barrister.

Joint senior practice manager Nick Hill says: "David Pope started to do more and more work for Denton Wilde Sapte and as a result they made him an offer and he accepted."

Verulam has lost a series of people since the beginning of the year, including commercial and EU junior Jonathan Marks, Philippe Sands, James Crawford and Maurice Sheridan. Nick Hill, who took over from Paul Cooklin and has seen the loss of several juniors denied it was a trend.

Hill says: "We have lost some junior members, particularly to Matrix because they wanted to explore greater public law and they felt better placed to do that there."

Pope, who is being instructed by Freshfields, will complete the work before his departure and described the move as natural.

"I had to think long and hard as I have had six long and happy years but I get on with DWS and it's a wonderful opportunity," says Pope.

Hill adds: "It's always a shame to lose members of chambers. It is part of the greater lateral movement that exists at the current time and we wish him well."

Another source says: "Verulam has a set of very good people and this always helps [cushion the blow] when someone leaves."

Hill remained upbeat, saying that the commercial set was "currently considering a variety of options".